PhD student (Freiburg)

The Institute of Physics (Group Modeling of Functional Nanosystems)
is looking for aPart-time position (80 %), Start-date: At the
earliest possible date.Subject: Atomistic modeling of technical
friction contactsThe prediction of friction and wear by means of
theoretical models has occupied scientists for centuries. Although
renowned physicists such as Coulomb and Sommerfeld have made
important contributions in this field, no significant progress
could be made in this area until the 20th century. It is only
recently that a breakthrough has become apparent through the
massive use of parallel computers, which can be attributed to the
consideration of chemical complexity in realistic friction systems
by means of suitable atomistic models. For the concrete application
case of metal cutting, the friction behavior of dry and lubricated
metal-ceramic interfaces is to be modeled in the announced doctoral
thesis using the methods of atomistic computer-aided materials
science. Your tasksSystematic investigation of gas/liquid/solid
interfaces (contact angle, surface energies) using atomistic
simulation methodsMathematical modeling based on the simulation
results to predict the wetting behavior of real laser structured
surfacesProcessing of the research project in a project team and in
close cooperation with scientists from the Fraunhofer Institute for
Mechanics of Materials IWM and Karlsruhe Institute of
TechnologyWhat you bring with youCompleted scientific university
studies (Master) in physics or related fieldsProgramming knowledge,
experience in dealing with LinuxIdeally, previous knowledge in the
field of atomistic simulations (molecular dynamics and/or quantum
mechanical methods)Great interest in scientific work and
willingness for interdisciplinary cooperationCreativity and
commitmentGood written and spoken German and English skillsWhat you
can expectAn excellent scientific framework in the research group
„Modeling of Functional Nanosystems“ (Prof. Michael Moseler)A close
cooperation with the group „Multiscale Modeling and
Tribosimulation“ of Fraunhofer IWM with the possibility of
additional use of the local infrastructureAn exciting mixture of
basic research with a high practical relevanceProfessional and
personal development opportunitiesTeam-oriented work in a collegial
environmentFlexible working hours and support services to reconcile
family and careerThe position is limited to 3 years. The salary
will be determined in accordance with TV-L E13.We are particularly
pleased to receive applications from women for the position
advertised here.